Tag Archive for: Illinois attorney

Erin E. Masters: Advancing Family Law Practice with the 2026 Edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions

Family law is one of the most dynamic areas of legal practice, particularly when it comes to child-related issues in dissolution actions. These cases require not only a comprehensive understanding of statutes and case law but also a deep sensitivity to the impact of legal decisions on children and families. 

For over five decades, the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (IICLE®) has provided attorneys with authoritative guidance through its series of practice handbooks. Among these resources, FAMILY LAW: CHILD-RELATED ISSUES IN DISSOLUTION ACTIONS stands out as an essential reference for practitioners across Illinois.

The 2026 edition continues this legacy, and it is with great pride that we recognize the significant contributions of Erin E. Masters to this latest edition. Erin’s experience in family law, particularly in matters relating to children, has made this handbook a comprehensive, practical, and indispensable resource for attorneys navigating the challenges of dissolution actions.

A Legacy of Excellence in Family Law Resources

2026 Edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions

IICLE® has long been recognized for producing high-quality, user-friendly legal handbooks that have guided Illinois attorneys through complex legal landscapes. For over 50 years, these resources have helped legal professionals stay current with statutory changes, judicial trends, and best practices in the field. 

The Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions handbook has been a cornerstone of this effort, providing detailed analysis and actionable guidance on matters including custody, visitation, child support, parental responsibilities, and the allocation of decision-making authority.

Each edition of this handbook is carefully crafted to reflect the most current developments in Illinois family law. By contributing to the 2026 edition, Erin E. Masters has helped ensure that attorneys have access to the most up-to-date guidance on critical issues affecting children in dissolution proceedings. Her work exemplifies the intersection of scholarly rigor and practical application, making complex legal concepts accessible and actionable for practitioners.

Erin E. Masters: Expertise and Impact

Erin E. Masters is widely respected in the legal community for her extensive knowledge of family law. Her practice focuses on complex family law matters, with a particular emphasis on cases involving children. Erin’s contributions to the 2026 edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions reflect not only her legal knowledge but also her commitment to providing resources that empower attorneys to better serve their clients.

In the 2026 edition, Erin addresses a wide range of child-related issues, providing clear explanations, practical strategies, and references to relevant statutes and case law. Her work helps ensure that attorneys can approach custody disputes, visitation conflicts, and child support matters with confidence, equipped with insights drawn from years of experience in the courtroom and in practice.

Some of the areas highlighted in Erin’s contributions include:

  1. Custody and Decision-Making Authority: Erin provides detailed guidance on determining custody arrangements that prioritize the best interests of the child, including joint versus sole custody, allocation of parental responsibilities, and the practical considerations attorneys must evaluate when advising clients.
  2. Visitation and Parenting Time: The handbook offers comprehensive strategies for addressing visitation schedules, parenting time modifications, and resolving conflicts, helping attorneys advocate effectively while minimizing disruption to the child’s routine.
  3. Child Support and Financial Considerations: Erin’s work has helped ensure that practitioners have a clear understanding of how child support is calculated, including considerations for special needs, healthcare, education, and extraordinary expenses. Her guidance assists attorneys in protecting their clients’ financial interests while ensuring the child’s welfare is prioritized.
  4. Emerging Trends and Legal Developments: Family law is constantly evolving, and Erin addresses emerging issues such as the recognition of non-traditional families, the impact of relocation on custody arrangements, and recent appellate decisions that influence family law practice in Illinois.
  5. Practical Tools and Checklists: One of the hallmarks of Erin’s contribution is her emphasis on practical utility. The handbook includes sample forms, checklists, and step-by-step guidance to help attorneys streamline case preparation and client counseling.

Continuing the Tradition of Excellence

By contributing to this edition, Erin E. Masters has helped IICLE® maintain its reputation for producing first-rate, practice-oriented legal resources. Attorneys across Illinois rely on these handbooks to navigate complex family law matters, and Erin’s work helps ensure that the 2026 edition continues to meet this high standard. Her authorship reflects a commitment not only to the law but also to the attorneys and clients who benefit from clear, actionable guidance.

The 2026 edition also demonstrates a thoughtful integration of theory and practice. Erin’s writing balances detailed legal analysis with practical advice, ensuring that attorneys are not only informed about the law but also equipped to apply it effectively in real-world scenarios. This approach makes the handbook an indispensable tool for both seasoned practitioners and those.

Final Thoughts

2026 Edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions (1)

The release of the 2026 edition of FAMILY LAW: CHILD-RELATED ISSUES IN DISSOLUTION ACTIONS marks another milestone in the ongoing tradition of excellence established by IICLE®. Erin E. Masters’ contributions are a testament to her expertise, dedication, and commitment to advancing the practice of family law in Illinois.

Through her work, attorneys now have access to a comprehensive, user-friendly, and highly practical resource that addresses the full spectrum of child-related issues in dissolution actions. From custody and visitation to child support and emerging legal developments, this handbook provides the guidance necessary to navigate even the most complex family law matters with confidence and competence.

For Illinois attorneys looking to enhance their practice, stay current with legal developments, and better serve their clients, the 2026 edition of Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions is an indispensable resource. Erin E. Masters’ authorship ensures that this handbook continues to be a cornerstone of family law practice, supporting attorneys and ultimately benefiting the children and families who rely on the legal system for guidance and protection.

If you or a loved one is facing family law matters involving children, Erin E. Masters and the team at Masters Law Group are here to provide guidance, personalized support, and strategic representation.

Contact Masters Law Group today to discuss your family law needs and help ensure your family’s best interests are protected.

Q&A: Child Support During COVID-19.

The current global pandemic has caused devastating blows to both public health and the financial security of millions of Americans. For parents who have court orders to pay child support, the financial outlook may be especially bleak.  Read more

Child Custody During COVID-19 and The Holidays

Dealing with child custody issues is stressful enough. Dealing with child custody issues during the COVID holidays poses an entirely complicated dilemma. Here’s how keep the magic alive for your children and ensure that the 2020 holidays are your best yet.

Shared custody is raising COVID-19 concerns as kids travel between households for the holidays this year. Millions of children split their time between parents every week and even more so during the holidays, but concerns over pandemic safety can make that time even more stressful.

Parents are facing unforeseen issues this year such as:

  • The child having to travel to another part of the state, or another state altogether, to visit their parent
  • One parent living in a COVID-19 hotspot
  • One parent had COVID-19 or is currently experiencing symptoms
  • One parent is not being careful about COVID-19 and could be putting the child in danger
  • One parent does not feel the virus is a true health threat
  • One parent is immunocompromised and in isolation
  • There may be a second wave and more shelter-in-place orders

These new and complex issues may be even more difficult if the courts backed up with cases because of the nationwide lockdowns this past year.

If you’re concerned about COVID-19 and your child’s holiday visitation schedule, then there are steps you can take to work it out with your co-parent, and then go directly to the court to ensure it is legally binding.

Parenting Time COVID Rules

Unless your specific court order prevents out-of-state travel or has other restrictions, then generally speaking, each parent may choose to travel during the holidays even during the pandemic, whether or not the other parent agrees. However, violating state travel laws, CDC and state quarantine guidelines and court-ordered visitation arrangements can potentially affect a custody case. Furthermore, personal issues may also arise when one parent feels safe with airline travel or interstate travel and the other parent prefers to stay at home and self-isolate.

First and foremost, if you chose to travel with your children during the holidays, check in advance for any quarantine restrictions. Following state-imposed guidelines while traveling and attending events during the holidays will help minimize or reduce any potential impact to your custody arrangement.

In Illinois, the Department of Public Health (IDPH) is offering recommendations on how to celebrate safer during the COVID-19 pandemic.  During a time when social distancing and limiting the number of people at gatherings is important, special considerations should be taken.

“COVID-19 has changed the way we work, live, and play, and will now change how we plan to celebrate the holidays,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike.  “While the safest way to celebrate is with members of your household and connecting with others virtually, we know, for many, the holidays are all about family and friends, so we want to provide some tips on how to celebrate safer.”

The guidelines also say if you are hosting a holiday gathering, limit the number of guests and try to have as many activities outside as weather permits.

What this Means for Separated Parents

This is going to be a long winter for our country, businesses, schools, and families — no doubt. It will take a child-focused, selfless perspective by countless co-parents this holiday season in how to best approach visitation and traditions with families and children.

First and foremost, you must remember that child custody agreements in Illinois, and in every other state, are legally binding. As long as a parent is following these state guidelines for COVID-19 restrictions, most judges will not alter custody orders to prevent one parent from traveling with the children.

While it’s tempting to want to ask that you have your children for the entire holiday season, you should not be angry or upset with your ex-partner if you are denied this due to the schedule set by the court. This year, it is highly suggested that people who live together celebrate together, rather than mixing households. Consider hosting a virtual holiday get together or check in with your kids and mailing your gifts instead. We know it hurts to not be able to visit your children for the holidays, but if it means risking your own life to do so, it’s worthwhile to heavily consider the alternatives.

If you believe a holiday visitation or celebration could place your child and your family at a heightened risk for COVID-19, you should communicate this fact to the other parent and/or your attorney. Offer some safer options and attempt to be as flexible and compassionate as possible. Always try to set emotion aside and as parents, choose what is best for your children and your family as a whole.

Final Thoughts

This is going to be a long winter for our country, businesses, schools, and families — no doubt. It will take a child-focused, selfless perspective by countless co-parents this holiday season in how to best approach visitation and traditions with families and children. Most of all, keep in mind who the holidays are the most special for: your children.

If you need legal assistance to modify a child custody or parenting time agreement to reflect new choices that better keep your family safe, contact the experienced attorneys at Masters Law Group. We represents individuals in both their initial quest to set a parenting time schedule, as well as parents looking to modify a previously determined schedule.